Last week, I had the privilege of speaking on the Inclusive and Neurodiverse Workplaces panel at the Bath and North Somerset Business Show (#BANESBS). Representing Inclusive Change in my role as ADHD Coach and Trainer, I was excited to share lived experience of and professional insights of Neurodiversity in the Workplace.

We kicked things off by talking about the barriers we’ve faced as neurodivergent professionals. One that came up repeatedly? Disbelief. Many of us have had our diagnoses questioned, especially if we don’t fit outdated stereotypes. 

• "You have a successful career, how can you be neurodivergent?"

• "Are you sure you’re dyslexic? You write emails just fine."

• "You don’t seem autistic."

• “You always have the answer, you can't have ADHD.”

There is an assumption that ADHD looks the same in everyone makes it even harder to get the right support. The reality is, workplaces still focus too much on what they think we ‘lack’ rather than recognising our strengths. ADHD is still misunderstood, with workplaces focusing on perceived deficits rather than recognising neurodivergent strengths.

So, what can businesses do? 

First, education is crucial. Employers need to understand that neurodiversity isn’t a deficit - it’s a different way of thinking. Neurodiversity awareness training, Neurodiversity awareness training helps employers move beyond misconceptions. 

Second, reasonable adjustments matter. ADHD is legally recognised as a disability under the Equality Act 2010, meaning workplaces must provide accommodations like flexible working or quiet spaces. 

Finally, cultural change is everything. People should feel safe disclosing their neurodivergence without fear of discrimination. Consider establishing a Peer Network to offer support and shared experiences.

The best part of the event? Hearing from others with lived experience. Conversations like these remind us that change is happening, it just takes businesses willing to listen, learn, and take action. Neurodivergent employees don’t need ‘fixing’, workplaces do!  With the right support, businesses can harness the immense value of neurodivergent minds.

Want to learn more about creating an inclusive workplace? Inclusive Change can help you: book a call here.

Written by Becca - Book her as a speaker here.